RARE c.1939 OMEGA Military Officer’s Watch | German Panzer Tank Brigade Award

RARE c.1939 OMEGA Military Officer’s Watch | Panzer Tank Brigade Award | 47mm

A Monumental Piece of Armored Cavalry History.

For your consideration is an exceptionally rare, oversized Omega Military Wristwatch, historically attributed as an award timepiece for an officer within the German Panzer (Armored) Brigades. Dating to circa 1939, this watch combines Omega’s legendary precision with the stark, utilitarian aesthetics of 1930s military command.

### The Command Dial

The dial is a striking example of military-spec design, optimized for high visibility under combat conditions:

• Panzer Iconography: At the 6 o’clock position is a detailed rendering of a heavy armored tank, signifying the recipient’s service in the elite armored divisions.

• The Balkenkreuz: Positioned prominently below the 12, the “Bar Cross” was the official identifier for the era’s mechanized forces.

• Clarity & Scale: Large, bold Arabic numerals and a dedicated sub-seconds register at 9 o’clock. The “Cathedral” style hands have developed a rich, honest patina over the decades.

### Historical Context: The Officer’s Award

In the late 1930s, high-grade Swiss timepieces like this Omega were frequently commissioned as presentation pieces or “Service Awards” for high-ranking officers and distinguished leaders of armored regiments. At 47mm, this was designed to be worn over a heavy leather tunic or flight suit, ensuring the commander could coordinate tactical movements with absolute precision.

### Technical Excellence & Provenance

• Movement: A genuine Omega 15-Jewel manual wind movement.

  • Serial Number: 8655148 (Dates to c.1937–1939).

  • Features a beautiful frosted gilt finish, heat-blued screws, and a bimetallic compensation balance.

• Case: Oversized 47mm (excluding crown) nickel-finish case with a large “Onion” crown, typical of early military conversions designed for ease of use with gloves.

• Case Back: Stamped with the official Omega “Globe” hallmark and serial 9480962.

• Lugs: Features fixed wire lugs, fitted with a high-quality 22mm black leather strap.

### Condition Report

• Running State: This watch is in perfect working order. It winds smoothly, sets correctly, and holds time remarkably well for a mechanical instrument of this age.

• Dial: The enamel dial is crisp with deep blacks and vibrant blues in the tank graphic.

• Movement: Exceptionally clean. The movement shows no signs of historical abuse or moisture damage.

• Aesthetic: The case shows honest “field wear” and light micro-scratching consistent with a piece that saw active service.

### Why This Is a Critical Investment

Oversized military Omegas from the pre-1940 era are becoming increasingly difficult to find, especially those with direct links to the Armored Cavalry. As a “Marriage” style watch (a vintage pocket watch movement professionally housed in a period-correct wristwatch case), it offers the size and reliability that modern collectors demand while maintaining its 85-year-old historical soul.

Shipping: Worldwide tracked and insured shipping via express courier. The watch will be professionally packed to ensure safe arrival.

The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $3500